Want to be a trader in bank? What position should I apply now?
I've been working as an auditor for 1 year plus. I'm really tired of the job, not just because of the long working hours and low productivity but the main thing is that this is not what I'm really interested. So, I want to make a move to banks.
I'm interested in technical analysis, and want to be a trader. But the current market condition, a lot of banks are cutting jobs, even the job market is very good here in Singapore, still banks are recruiting less. Especially for position like a junior trader, It's difficult to get in with no trading job experience.
Anyone here has better knowledge of the banking system can tell me what position should I apply now at least to get into bank first, and the position can be my stepping stone to become a trader eventually?
Apart from the job, I also would like to ask, is there any particular factors I need to take into account for the interview? Any certificate I can pursue to help for the future career development?
Thanks
Wilson
Best Answer
788 points
DaveDiggz answered one year ago …
The biggest thing to remember is that banks don't want to hire entry level employees who already know how to trade - or should I say, already have a certain method for training. Banks like to teach THEIR method of doing things, as opposed to having to first help someone "unlearn" any bad/negative habits they might've picked up trading on their own.
So when you apply I'd suggest demonstrating an understanding of the markets, but not trying to show that you are already an avid trader. I'd also focus on any relevant mathematics course work you might've taken in college. Math is a very transferable skill set in the financial services industry. So when you apply for an entry level job it's usually a 4 - 6 month rotation job: you go through trading, investment banking, analysis, sales, etc. and then get an offer for a particular area after the rotation is done. If you have a solid mathematics background it's looked upon much more favorably at a bank because they know you'll be able to handle the rotation period.
I hope that was of some help and I wish you the very best of luck!
